United Rugby Championship: Jake White agrees new long-term contract with the Bulls
Bulls coach Jake White during the United Rugby Championship 2021/22 Grand Final between Stormers and Bulls held at Cape Town Stadium in Cape Town, South Africa on 18 June 2022 ©Shaun Roy/Sports Inc
Former South Africa head coach Jake White has extended his stay with the Bulls after signing a new deal with the franchise, which takes him to at least 2027.
White, who guided the Springboks to World Cup success in 2007, joined the Pretoria-based outfit in 2020 and has revitalised the team.
They won Super Rugby Unlocked in his first year as head honcho before finishing as runners-up in both the Rainbow Cup and their debut United Rugby Championship campaign.
Big Leinster result
The latter saw the Bulls end Leinster’s impressive domestic run. Having claimed four successive titles in the PRO14, the Irish province succumbed 27-26 at home to White’s well-oiled team.
“We are thrilled to announce that the Vodacom Bulls director of rugby, Jake White, has committed to remain with the team until 2027,” Bulls CEO Edgar Rathbone said.
“Jake has had an immeasurable influence at the Vodacom Bulls since his arrival two years ago and continues to build a formidable side that is set to compete against the best in the globe.
“His record speaks for itself and with this long-term commitment, we can rest assured that he is committed to take the Vodacom Bulls to greater heights over the next few years.”
The Bulls go into this campaign as one of the title favourites and White is looking to build on their impressive URC debut.
Winning more trophies
“It gives me great joy to be able to commit for a long-term period to the Vodacom Bulls,” he said.
“This gives me comfort and confidence in continuing to build a strong team that will compete and be counted among the best rugby sides in the world.
“I’m grateful to the Blue Bulls Company board, staff and players for their support and confidence in me.
“I look forward to continuing to work towards elevating the Vodacom Bulls brand and adding more trophies to our cabinet over the next five years.”
White’s charges open their campaign with an away match against the Lions before returning to Pretoria to face Edinburgh in their second clash.
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